WINNIPEG, MB - In 2013, the City of Winnipeg intends to invest a minimum of $30 million into improving traffic in the Polo Park area, Mayor Sam Katz announced today.
In June 2012, the City of Winnipeg announced the sale of the Canad Inns stadium site. Part of the sale price included $20 million to be allocated towards infrastructure renewal in the Polo Park area, allowing road renewal to take place alongside new residential and commercial (mixed-use) development.
"The Polo Park area is one of the busiest retail areas in Winnipeg," said Mayor Sam Katz. "All the successful development in this area means that people drive here from all parts of the City. With new development coming shortly, it's important that we get traffic improvements underway as soon as possible."
"Improving the flow of traffic is something that I strongly support," said Councillor Scott Fielding (St. James - Brooklands). "I'm sure this investment will be much appreciated, especially by area residents looking for ways to cut down the time they spend in traffic."
"It's important to find the funds in our Capital Budget to make the necessary infrastructure improvements in this area," said Deputy Mayor Russ Wyatt, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance. "If we do not address the traffic congestion problem today, both the congestion and costs will grow in the future."
As part of the overall process, the City will consult with area businesses and residents, in order to share plans and consider feedback.